“Old Yeller,” “Savage Sam” and “Where the Red Fern Grows” were my favorite reads when I was a kid. I wasn’t the first one to become enamored with dogs. In fact, there have been studies that purport dogs were the first animals domesticated by humans.

It seems we have our ancient ancestors to thank for our best friends today. I was glad to get some insight into those friends with the current Ella Sharp Museum exhibit, “The Nature of Dogs,” by photographer Mary Ludington.

The exhibit, which runs through Nov. 26, features a selection of photos from Ludington’s book by the same title, including two of my favorites — the dachshund (ours is named Shamus) and the Parsons Russell terrier aka Jack Russell terrier (ours who died this summer was named Buddy).

Like our Buddy, the Parsons terrier in Ludington’s photo appears ready for an adventure with what can only be described as a smile on his face.

Ludington spent years photographing 180 American Kennel Club breeds of dogs, and it was interesting to see her work. I’ve had some great dogs in my life. Growing up, my family had cocker spaniels: My aunt had a toy fox terrier; another aunt had poodles; and my best friend had an old English sheep dog. They all came in different packages and had different attitudes, but they all had something in common — people who adored them.

Along with the photos were brief histories of each breed. It’s funny that many dogs were bred for very utilitarian reasons, from herding sheep to killing vermin, but now dogs in general play an even more important role. They are companions.

Even if you only have a passing interest in dogs, Ludington’s work is beautiful to look at, in rich black and whites, sepia and hand-colored silver gelatin.

The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday. Admission is $ 5 for adults and $3 for kids 5 to 12. It’s free for children under 5.